Contraception and adolescent pregnancy

[Sonia]

Many adolescents engage in sexual activity but may not be fully informed about contraception, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases, including hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Impulsivity, lack of planning, and concurrent drug and alcohol use decrease the likelihood that adolescents will use birth control and barrier protection (such as condoms).
(See also Introduction to Problems in Adolescents.)